Community gardening

On Friday 25th February, Sustainable Merton welcomed a friendly group of local people to their community orchard and gardens in Mitcham for the first in a series of food growing workshops, part of their new community gardening Growing for Good project.

It was a lovely sunny day which really helped to get everyone in the mood for a gardening session. To start the workshop, a knowledgeable and regular gardening volunteer gave an informative introduction to the Orchard where she shared a wealth of information on its recent history and the organic principles which the Orchard is founded on.

Working together

Then, after a quick snack, it was time to get to work. The first task was to build two raised beds which will be used for sowing and growing a variety of vegetables later in the year. The experienced trainer had it all planned out and participants had the task of sawing the wood to the right size ready for building the beds at the next session. Everyone got involved, beginners and the more experienced alike.

It took a little longer than anticipated but the task was finally completed and then it was time to head off to South Mitcham Community Centre for a spot of lunch, homemade crown prince squash soup! Overall, it was a productive day and with plenty of time to chat and enjoy the relaxing green space of the Orchard.

The next session will continue with the good work that has already been started including some more garden DIY and, hopefully, some seed sowing! We will also be sharing another delicious lunch together.

Further information

Find out about the Sustainable Merton Community Fridge

Find ways to keep active on the One You Merton Be Active page

Blog written by

Katie Tubby
Growing Spaces Co-ordinator
Sustainable Merton